OPT and RefugeeOne

The Jewish community is part of a massive nationwide mobilization to welcome  refugees, with congregations participating in refugee resettlement efforts at an unprecedented pace. Under the guidance of Rabbi Kirzane, a group of Oak Park Temple members have joined together with RefugeeOne to become co-sponsors for a refugee family who are expected to arrive in Chicago in February.

RefugeeOne is the largest refugee resettlement agency in Chicago. With the help of volunteer co-sponsors, RefugeeOne works with refugees from the time they arrive in Chicago.  While RefugeeOne provides programmatic services, co-sponsors provide critical relational support to refugees as they begin to rebuild their lives. The goal is to help refugee families become independent community members in 6-9 months. 

To date, our group has procured furniture for one apartment, purchased dry goods and other essential items and raised several thousands of dollars from our temple members. Once the apartment is available, our group will set up the apartment with donated furniture and  two weeks worth of groceries. When the family arrives, we will meet them at the airport, provide a welcome meal at their new apartment and visit weekly to help them adjust to life in Chicago. Over time we will build relationships and  introduce the family members to all that Chicago has to offer. 

For further information about the OPT team efforts, or if you would like to help the family at some point, please contact temple member Mike Awe at mcce@sbcglobal. net